Ultimate Guide to Zanzibar’s Hidden Beaches

Zanzibar's Hidden Beaches: Secret Spots for Sun & Surf
Khadija K.Chum
January 22, 2025
5 min read

Ultimate Guide to Zanzibar’s Hidden Beaches

When most travellers think of Zanzibar, images of Nungwi and Kendwa with their bustling shores and postcard-perfect sunsets come to mind. But beyond the crowds lies a quieter, more secret side of the island, a collection of hidden beaches where peace, adventure, and untouched beauty await those willing to explore.


Start at Kiwengwa Beach, where soft, powdery sand stretches as far as the eye can see. The waters here are calm and inviting, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply lying back with the gentle ocean breeze brushing your skin. Locals drift lazily along the shore, adding a relaxed rhythm to this serene escape.


Further south, Bwejuu Beach offers a different kind of tranquility. Fringed with swaying palms and kissed by crystal-clear waters, this quiet stretch invites long, meditative walks along the shoreline. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow, and the world fades to the sound of gentle waves.


On the tip of the Michamvi Peninsula, Michamvi Kae holds a secret of its own. Here, the sunsets are legendary fiery reds and golds reflected in the calm sea and the iconic Rock Restaurant perches offshore, a quirky beacon calling you to pause, photograph, and savour the moment.


Matemwe Beach, tucked among traditional fishing villages, offers a quieter, authentic Zanzibari experience. Snorkellers are drawn to the waters around Mnemba Atoll, where vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish create a magical underwater world. The gentle rhythm of village life mingles with the waves, giving visitors a true sense of place.


And then there’s Chwaka Bay, a hidden jewel nestled between mangroves and small settlements. Kayakers glide along calm waterways, while birdwatchers discover rare species in the unique coastal ecosystem. Here, every turn of the paddle or glance skyward feels like a discovery.


Pack light, bring your camera, and leave behind the usual tourist trail Zanzibar’s hidden beaches are not just destinations, but secret experiences where serenity meets adventure, and every moment feels like it was made just for you.